Monday 20 / May / 2024
London: Omran Group, the leading tourism development company in the Sultanate of Oman, had a vibrant participation at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2023 in London, United Kingdom, as part of the Sultanate of Oman’s delegation represented by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
On the sidelines of the event, Omran Group signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), one with Barceló Hotel Group to establish a real estate fund, and another with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) to enhance joint promotional efforts for tourist destinations.
The first agreement with Barceló Hotel Group, a renowned Spanish hotel management company, aims to establish a collaborative framework for a real estate development fund that will attract foreign direct investments to finance tourism and hospitality projects in Oman. The agreement was signed by Dr Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group, and Raúl González, CEO of Barceló Hotel Group, in the presence of Azzan bin Qassim Al Busaidi, Chairman of Omran Group and Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Tourism.
Furthermore, Omran Group signed an MoU with Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) to enhance strategic cooperation in promoting and jointly marketing tourist destinations. This partnership aims to boost promotional efforts for the Governorate of Musandam in the Sultanate of Oman and the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates, highlighting them as premier tourist destinations that attract visitors from around the world. The agreement was signed by Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA and Dr Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group.
Commenting on these strategic partnerships, Dr Hashil Al Mahrouqi said, "We are pleased to embark on these partnerships that align with Omran Group’s goals to become the partner of choice in the tourism sector by collaborating with investors, partners, and industry leaders. This direction reflects our commitment to intensifying efforts to develop the tourism sector in the Sultanate of Oman by establishing and operating leading tourist destinations in line with Oman Vision 2040 and the National Tourism Strategy."
Raúl González remarked, "Our strategic partnership with Omran Group mirrors Barceló's desire to contribute to enhancing the tourism and hospitality industry in Oman. There is no doubt that our joint efforts will enhance direct foreign investment and promote the country's growth as a prime destination for international travellers."
In the same context, Raki Philips stated, "This significant agreement between the authority and Omran Group amplifies our joint efforts and cooperation in promoting and marketing tourist destinations in both Ras Al Khaimah and the Governorate of Musandam. Through this collaboration, we aim to jointly promote the abundant touristic destinations on both sides, highlighting the unique touristic features and diverse experiences they are renowned for, positively impacting the tourism sector."
In a recent development, Omran Group's prestigious Alila Hinu Bay Resort in Mirbat, Salalah, proudly announced its partnership with the esteemed Extra Divers, a global leader in water and beach activity management, at WTM London 2023. This strategic alliance is set to enhance the resort's aquatic facilities, introducing an array of new programmes and activities including diving, dolphin and whale watching, and a variety of other water sports. The collaboration promises to enrich the experience, offering unparalleled engagement with the marine splendour of the region.
In a significant stride toward enhancing Oman's global tourism footprint, Visit Oman has secured pivotal MoUs with leading e-tourism platforms and experiential providers. These agreements are a testament to the company’s dedication to positioning Oman as a distinguished destination on the world stage. The Visit Oman platform stands as a vital conduit, connecting Omani travel offerings with the global audience, while simultaneously elevating the quality of tourism and increasing visitor spending.
Omran Group, in a synergistic collaboration with its subsidiary 'Visit Oman,' captivated attendees with a joint exhibition at the Sultanate of Oman pavilion, orchestrated by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. This strategic presence underscored Oman’s allure as a premium travel destination and highlighted the nation's inviting investment climate to key players in the tourism sector, such as travel agents and tour operators. Visitors to the exhibition were treated to a preview of Oman's rich array of tourist attractions, a testament to the country's diverse landscapes.
Drawing in over 4,000 exhibitors from across the globe, including both governmental and private sectors, the annual World Travel Market serves as an invaluable nexus for tourism professionals to forge connections, share insights, and foster partnerships that shape the industry's future.
